BHN Lights Up 2K Hotspots in Fla.

1/16/2012 12:01 AM Eastern

By: By Todd Spangler

Bright House Networks has deployedmore than 2,000 Wi-Fi access points across the Sunshine
State — with plans to more than double the
number of hotspots by the end of 2012 — offering outof-
home wireless access to its broadband subscribers for
no additional charge.

The MSO is following the lead of other operators,
including Cablevision Systems, Time Warner Cable
and Comcast, that have built out Wi-Fi networks in
high-density public areas of their footprints. Those
three operators have reciprocal agreements allowing
their customers to use the others’ Wi-Fi hotspots.

Bright House has deployed Wi-Fi access points from
BelAir Networks. Initially the operator has concentrated
the Wi-Fi buildout in marina areas, including Clearwater,
Daytona Beach, Ybor City and River Walk. The company
said it will also “concentrate on areas where its customers
heavily travel,” such as the International Drive tourist
strip in Orlando and shopping centers.

The Wi-Fi network is available to any Bright House
Road Runner customer. Consumers who are not Bright
House customers can purchase Wi-Fi access for a peruse
fee in any Wi-Fi location.

“Bright House Networks is dedicated to keeping
its customers connected wherever they live, work or
play,” Leo Cloutier, Bright House’s senior vice president
of strategy and business development, said in
a statement. “Our goal is to offer Bright House Networks
Wi-Fi coverage in all of the places people spend
their time — beaches, parks, boat docks or even at the
ballgame.”